Ever wondered why Cusco is called the archaeological capital of Peru? Join Salkantay Trekkers Peru on the South Valley Tour Half Day and find out! This tour takes you through a valley rich in history and natural beauty, making it a perfect way to spend your morning.
The Cusco Valley is the oldest inhabited city in South America. Over 15 kilometers long, this valley was once home to a massive lake called Lake Morkill during the last ice age. Fossils found here tell the story of giant animals like Andean horses, giant sloths, mammoths, and Paleolamas that roamed this area.
People first lived in the Cusco Valley around 8,000 to 10,000 BC. They started as hunters and gatherers but soon became settlers, creating early cultures like Killque, Chanapata, Qotaqalli, and Marcavalles. Between 200 to 500 AD, the Tiahuanaco people moved in, and by 800 AD, the Wari Empire took over, building impressive cities and roads. One of their amazing sites, Pikillaqta, is still visible today. Around 1200 AD, the Incas began to form, eventually building the largest empire in South America and creating incredible structures like the Tipon irrigation system.
Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM every day
Type: Half-day tour
Highlights:
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 9:00 AM. Get ready for a half-day filled with history and beautiful views!
First stop is Tipon, an Inca site famous for its irrigation system. You’ll see how water flows through vertical and horizontal channels on the terraces, showcasing the Incas’ amazing engineering skills.
Next, we visit Pikillacta, a Wari archaeological site. Walk through quadrant streets and see two-story buildings with stuccoed walls and paved floors, giving you a glimpse into the past.
After Pikillacta, we head to Andahuaylillas. This small town is home to the “Sistine Chapel of America”, a beautiful colonial chapel with incredible baroque paintings on the ceiling and walls.
End your tour with a delicious meal, sampling some of the local Cusqueño cuisine before heading back to your hotel.
| Service Type | Price (Per Person – USD) |
|---|---|
| Shared Group Full-Day Tour | 20 |
Description of the Group Service
The group service offers an affordable and comfortable way to explore the highlights of Cusco’s South Valley, including Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas (the “Sistine Chapel of America”). This tour is conducted in shared transportation with other travelers, departing daily from Cusco in the morning and returning in the afternoon.
Main Characteristics of the Group Service
Advantages of the Group Service
| Number of Passengers | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | 120 |
| 2 People | 70 |
| 3 People | 55 |
| 4 People | 45 |
| 5 People | 40 |
| 6 People | 37 |
| 7 People | 35 |
| 8 People | 33 |
| 9 People | 31 |
| 10 People | 30 |
Description of the Private Service
The private service provides a personalized experience with exclusive transportation, a private professional guide, and flexible scheduling. It is ideal for travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and more control over the itinerary. The tour covers the same main sites as the group service but at your own pace, with the option to include extra stops or extended visits.
Main Characteristics of the Private Service
Advantages of the Private Service
Included in All Services
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At SALKANTAY TREKKERS, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
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